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The adsorption behaviors, reaction pathways and coupling mechanism of α-Fe 2 O 3 (0001) surface with the H 2 molecules and CO molecules in hydrogen-based shaft furnace were investigated at the atomic level based on the density functional theory. The results showed that the most stable adsorption configuration of H 2 molecule has an adsorption energy of −1.65 eV, whereas CO molecule is −2.10 eV. The most stable adsorption sites are both O atom, but the adsorption of CO molecule is more stable compared to H 2 molecule. The energy barrier of H 2 molecule is 0.64 eV and 0.76 eV of energy need to be absorbed after generating one free H 2 O molecule. While CO molecule reacts with an energy barrier of 1.40 eV and 0.09 eV of energy has to be released after generating one free CO 2 molecule. The reaction of H 2 molecules with Fe 2 O 3 is kinetically dominant but thermodynamically adverse. Increasing the temperature is detrimental to the adsorption of gas molecules but favors the reduction reaction, and can compensate for the thermodynamic disadvantage of adsorption and reaction for H 2 molecules. The adsorption energy per H 2 molecule is −1.51 eV and that of per CO molecule is −1.03 eV. The adsorption energy of −2.67 eV for the co-adsorption of one H 2 molecule and one CO molecule is less than the linear sum of adsorption energies when they adsorb separately, suggesting a synergistic mechanism for the interaction of H 2 and CO with Fe 2 O 3. This work can provide theoretical guidance for hydrogen-rich or even pure hydrogen reduction in hydrogen-based shaft furnace. • The adsorption of H 2 is unstable compared to CO and the most stable sites are O. • The reaction energy barrier of H 2 is lower than CO, which is kinetically dominant. • Increasing the temperature can compensate for the thermodynamic disadvantage of H 2. • A synergistic mechanism for the interaction of H 2 and CO with Fe 2 O 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, passivation of X80 pipeline steel was established at various passive potentials in a carbonate/bicarbonate solution. The passive films were characterized by topographical, compositional, and structural analysis techniques and electrochemical measurements. The effect of the passive film on hydrogen (H) atom permeation was investigated by electrochemical H permeation testing and scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy. The passive films primarily comprise Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 and FeOOH. In the stable passive region, notably at 0.25 V (saturated calomel electrode, SCE), the formed passive film exhibits the highest film resistance, and the smallest double-layer capacitance and donor density. In contrast, oxide films formed at −0.1 V(SCE) and 0.55 V(SCE), which close to the active-passive transition and the transpassive regions, respectively, differ in their characteristics. The oxide films formed at −0.1 V(SCE) and 0.25 V(SCE) exhibit resistance against H atom permeation, and a superior performance is observed in the film formed at 0.25 V(SCE). The oxide film formed at 0.55 V(SCE) exhibits increased H atom permeation, which is attributed to the degraded structure of the film. Thus, the presence of compact oxide film (scale) on steel surface can effectively inhibit H atom permeation into the steel. • Prepared oxide films with various structures and morphologies on the surface of X80 pipeline steel. • Determined the role of oxide film in inhibition of hydrogen atom permeation into the steel. • Proposed an index to evaluate the inhibition performance of the oxide film in resistance to hydrogen permeation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In acute ischemic stroke, even when successful recanalization is obtained, downstream microcirculation may still be obstructed by microvascular thrombosis, which is associated with compromised brain reperfusion and cognitive decline. Identifying these microthrombi through non-invasive methods remains challenging. We developed the PHySIOMIC (Polydopamine Hybridized Self-assembled Iron Oxide Mussel Inspired Clusters), a MRI-based contrast agent that unmasks these microthrombi. In a mouse model of thromboembolic ischemic stroke, our findings demonstrate that the PHySIOMIC generate a distinct hypointense signal on T2*-weighted MRI in the presence of microthrombi, that correlates with the lesion areas observed 24 hours post-stroke. Our microfluidic studies reveal the role of fibrinogen in the protein corona for the thrombosis targeting properties. Finally, we observe the biodegradation and biocompatibility of these particles. This work demonstrates that the PHySIOMIC particles offer an innovative and valuable tool for non-invasive in vivo diagnosis and monitoring of microthrombi, using MRI during ischemic stroke. The non-invasive detection of microthrombi following acute ischemic stroke is challenging. Here the author develop an MRI-based contrast agent allowing the identification of microthrombi, investigating it in a mouse model of thromboembolic ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics are commonly used as antibacterial medications due to their extensive and potent therapeutic properties. However, the overconsumption of these chemicals leads to their accumulation in the human body via the food chain, amplifying drug resistance and compromising immunity, thus presenting a significant hazard to human health. Antibiotics are classified as organic pollutants. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct research on precise methodologies for detecting antibiotics in many substances, including food, pharmaceutical waste, and biological samples like serum and urine. The methodology described in this research paper introduces an innovative technique for producing nanoparticles using silica as the shell material, iron oxide as the core material, and carbon as the shell dopant. By integrating a carbon-doped silica shell, this substance acquires exceptional fluorescence characteristics and a substantial quantum yield value of 80%. By capitalising on this characteristic of the substance, we have effectively constructed a fluorescent sensor that enables accurate ofloxacin analysis, with a detection limit of 1.3 × 10-6 M and a linear range of concentrations from 0 to 120 × 10-6 M. We also evaluated the potential of CSIONPs for OLF detection in blood serum and tap water analysis. The obtained relative standard deviation values were below 3.5%. The percentage of ofloxacin recovery from blood serum ranged from 95.52% to 103.28%, and from 89.9% to 96.0% from tap water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to more environmentally friendly steel production methods has intensified research into hydrogen-based direct reduction (HyDR) of iron oxide pellets. The aim of this study is to systematically investigate the kinetics of the reduction process, the evolution of porosity and the resulting microstructural changes on the reduction behavior of high-quality pellets during HyDR of iron ore at different temperatures. A modified mathematical model is developed based on the shrinkage kernel model, taking into account both mass and heat transport in a hydrogen atmosphere. The effects of temperature, particle size and time on the reduction behavior of the pellets are investigated. The simulated results are validated and discussed by the results of a batch of iron oxide pellets consisting of ten almost spherical pellets subjected to the direct reduction process with pure hydrogen. The results show that the total energy input to the HyDR process is a complex balance of factors, including chemical reaction rates, diffusion dynamics and entropy generation. The increase in free volume and simultaneous decrease in pore diameter reflect the dynamic nature of the microstructure, which includes additional free volume and defects due to the volume discrepancies and associated stresses between the reactant and product phases. Furthermore, the data show that higher temperatures accelerate the reduction reactions, especially the transformation of wustite into metallic iron. This phase transition is characterized by a significant volume change that cannot be accommodated by elastic deformation alone, leading to the development of lattice defects such as cracks, creep pores and dislocations that serve as stress relief mechanisms. The trends for porosity change at 950 °C and 1000 °C observed in the experimental results are correct and in good agreement with the numerical and simulated results. [Display omitted] • Development of a model to evaluate HyDR kinetics and microstructural changes in iron oxide pellets. • Higher temperatures accelerate HyDR, which affects phase transitions and defect formation. • Temperature-induced porosity affects kinetics and gas diffusion despite tortuosity. • HyDR leads to stress defects and increased porosity in the microstructure. • The interaction of kinetics and entropy in the optimization of the HyDR process for steel was highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naphthenic acids (NAs) have been found to exert serious threats on offshore sediment ecosystems and human health in recent years, which entails us the urgent need for NAs remediation. Bioremediation is considered an ideal method for sediment remediation due to ecological sustainability and economic feasibility. However, current bioremediation efficiency of offshore sediments suffers from relatively slow and there has never any attempts to bioremediate offshore sediment NAs contamination hitherto. In this study, the green synthetic iron oxides (gFeOx) based on Laminaria extracts was employed to enhance the biodegradation of NAs (Cyclohexylacetic acid, CHAA) in offshore sediments by Pseudoalteromonas sp. JSTW (an indigenous microorganism). The results showed that CHAA (20 mg·kg−1) in offshore sediments was removed almost 100% within 7 days at 30 mg·kg−1 gFeOx and 0.6 mg·kg−1 Strain JSTW. High-throughput sequencing results revealed that the structure and function of sediment microbial community were essentially restored to uncontaminated levels after bioremediation, highlighting the joint remediation approach is an efficient and eco-friendly method. Overall, this work has firstly provided insights into the application for NAs in situ bioremediation in offshore sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron oxide nanoparticles were green synthesised by Falcaria vulgaris extract. Characterisation of samples was carried out by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Investigating factors, such as pH, adsorbent dosage, temperature, contact time and the dose effect of the initial concentration of methylene blue dye, was done on adsorption of methylene blue. The synthesised nanoparticles exhibited a relatively spherical and irregular surface, with a size of about 35 nm, a haematite crystal phase and a saturation magnetisation of 8.3 emu/g. The highest adsorption of methylene blue (76%) was achieved at a pH value of 6, with an optimal adsorbent quantity of 0.004 g/L and a starting concentration of 80 mg/L. The adsorption behaviour of synthesised iron oxide nanoparticles follows from Langmuir isotherm and has a maximum adsorption capacity of 49.169 mg/g. The kinetics of methylene blue dye removal using iron oxide nanoparticles followed a second-order kinetic equation. The adsorption activity of iron oxide nanoparticles showed very little change even after two regeneration cycles. Therefore, the obtained adsorbent regained its adsorption capacity with the help of the photo-Fenton process and is reusable again. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aging population and increasing incidence of trauma among younger age groups have heightened the increasing demand for reliable implant materials. Effective implant materials must demonstrate rapid osseointegration and strong antibacterial properties to ensure optimal patient outcomes and decrease the chance of implant rejection. This study aims to enhance the bone–implant interface by utilizing 45S5 bioglass modified with various concentrations of Fe3O4 as a coating material. The effect of the insertion of Fe3O4 into the bioglass structure was studied using Raman spectroscopy which shows that with the increase in Fe3O4 concentration, new vibration bands associated with Fe-related structural units appeared within the sample. The bioactivity of the prepared glasses was evaluated using immersion tests in simulated body fluid, revealing the formation of a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 24 h on the samples, indicating their potential for enhanced tissue integration. However, the sample modified with 8 mol% of Fe3O4 showed low reactivity, developing a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 96 h. All the bioglasses showed antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The modified bioglass did not present significant antibacterial properties compared to the bioglass base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead is a heavy metal that affects all systems of the human body. An adsorption method was used for removal of lead from wastewater. For this purpose, two adsorbents, graphene oxide coated sand particles (GOSC) and graphene coated iron oxide (GCIO) were prepared by coating of graphene sheets on the surfaces of sand particles and iron oxide using sucrose solution under controlled heating program. Both adsorbents offered very fast removal of Pb+2 ions with small amount of GOSC and GCIO, respectively. Characterization of GOSC was done using several advanced techniques like FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX and TEM before and after adsorption of lead ions (Pb2+). Various parameters such as the effect of time, pH, adsorbent, dose effect, concentration and temperature were studied for both adsorbents. Various adsorption and kinetic models were also examined using adsorption data for both the adsorbents and results showed that removal of lead (Pb2+) ions through GOSC follow Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 99%), second order kinetics (R2 = 98%) and higher intraparticle diffusion (R2 = 98%), respectively while in case of GCIO adsorbent, the removal of lead (Pb2+) ions follows Freundlich model (R2 = 99%), second order kinetics (R2 = 98%) and higher intraparticle diffusion (R2 = 98%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the debonding on-demand (DoD) of adhesively bonded hybrid dissimilar joints by applying electromagnetic induction heating to the joint overlap section, wherein the epoxy resin is reinforced with iron oxide (Fe3O4) particles. Ti-6Al-4 V adherends were bonded with CFRP or GFRP adherends using neat/modified epoxy adhesive. DoD tests revealed that eddy current heating of Ti-6Al-4 V was a dominant heating mechanism of the joints while both eddy current and magnetic hysteresis of CFRP and Fe3O4 acted as a secondary heating factor. A low content Fe3O4 and thinner composite adherend reduced the time to failure of the joints. Likewise, CFRP required a shorter time for debonding compared to GFRP due to its electromagnetic properties. Modifications with 2 and 5 wt.% Fe3O4 for CFRP and GFRP joints led to 31% and 37% time reduction which will be crucial for energy-saving when debonding large structures. Remarkably, sandblasting improved the electromagnetic induction capabilities of Ti-6Al-4 V, leading to a notable increase in the heating rate, which jumped from around 20°C/s to 80°C/s. Sandblasting enhanced the surface roughness of the adherends but only the water contact angle of GFRP decreased considerably. Fe3O4 modifications increased the epoxy residue on the Ti-6Al-4 V surface from 26% to 99%. DIC revealed the strain distribution of bulk materials to understand the thermomechanical mismatches between the materials and the adhesive joints exhibited high peel stresses at the overlap ends. The low weight content (2 and 5 wt.%) of Fe3O4 exhibited beneficial effects on the mechanical, thermal, thermomechanical, wettability and lap shear strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorption is the most important process influencing the amount of herbicide retained in soils. The special properties of biochar could influence the soil retention of pollutants through adsorption. However, the detailed sorption mechanisms as influenced before and after applying biochar to soils with different properties are unclear. This study examined the sorption characteristics of metolachlor using soil samples collected from South China. Sorption experiments were conducted using a batch equilibration method. After comparing the metolachlor sorption constants observed for all soil samples, our results showed that the application of biochar significantly increased the capacity of metolachlor adsorption. Without biochar, sorption capacity (Kf) was positively related to soil organic matter and to a soil particle size of 0.002–0.02 mm in soils developed from granite, of 0.002–0.02 mm in soils developed from delta shockwaves, and of 0.002–0.02 mm, together with complex iron oxide and total iron content, in soils developed from arenaceous shale. Moreover, sorption capacity (Kf) with biochar was positively related to peroxidase in soils developed from granite and to dissociative iron oxide and total iron content in soils developed from arenaceous shale. Our results show that biochar greatly affects metolachlor sorption behavior, probably because of qualitative differences in the structural characteristics of soils with different developmental parent materials and properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a highly prevalent form of sensorineural hearing damage that has significant negative effects on individuals of all ages and there are no effective drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. In this study, we unveil the potential of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle assembly (SPIOCA) to reshape the dysbiosis of gut microbiota for treating NIHL. This modulation inhibits intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress responses, protecting the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Consequently, it reduces the transportation of pathogens and inflammatory factors from the bloodstream to the cochlea. Additionally, gut microbiota-modulated SPIOCA-induced metabolic reprogramming in the gut–inner ear axis mainly depends on the regulation of the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, which further contributes to the restoration of hearing function. Our study confirms the role of the microbiota–gut–inner ear axis in NIHL and provides a novel alternative for the treatment of NIHL and other microbiota dysbiosis-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) (Magtrace®) is a non‐radioactive liquid tracer that can stay in the sentinel lymph nodes for 30 days. Injection of SPIO at time of primary breast surgery where upfront sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is not immediately indicated allows for a return to theatre if pathology then identifies invasive disease. SLNB is associated with paraesthesia, pain, seroma formation and lymphoedema risk. Hence, our study aims to assess the use of SPIO to avoid upfront SLNB in breast surgery for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and prophylaxis. Methods: Retrospective single‐centre study of consecutive patients who underwent injection of SPIO tracer at time of primary breast surgery to avoid upfront SLNB at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, NSW, Australia over a 10‐month period. Results: SPIO was injected 38 times, with 34 at time of mastectomy and four cases at time of wide local excision. The indication for surgery was DCIS in 18 cases, risk reduction in 17 cases and other indications in three patients. Six cases (15.8%) required delayed SLNB (D‐SLNB) due to the finding of invasive disease on post‐operative histopathology. All patients who underwent D‐SLNB had nodes successfully localized with SPIO. Conclusion: In our cohort, 84.2% of cases were able to avoid upfront SLNB, and hence avoid the associated complications of SLNB. SPIO injection was successful in localizing the SLN in all cases at time of surgery for D‐SLNB. This technique was safe with few associated complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solid‐state synthesis of perovskite BiFeO3 has been a topic of interest for decades. Many studies have reported challenges in the synthesis of BiFeO3 from starting oxides of Bi2O3 and Fe2O3, mainly associated with the development of persistent secondary phases such as Bi25FeO39 (sillenite) and Bi2Fe4O9 (mullite). These secondary phases are thought to be a consequence of unreacted Fe‐rich and Bi‐rich regions, that is, incomplete interdiffusion. In the present work, in situ high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction is used to demonstrate that Bi2O3 first reacts with Fe2O3 to form sillenite Bi25FeO39, which then reacts with the remaining Fe2O3 to form BiFeO3. Therefore, the synthesis of perovskite BiFeO3 is shown to occur via a two‐step reaction sequence with Bi25FeO39 as an intermediate compound. Because Bi25FeO39 and the γ‐Bi2O3 phase are isostructural, it is difficult to discriminate them solely from X‐ray diffraction. Evidence is presented for the existence of the intermediate sillenite Bi25FeO39 using quenching experiments, comparisons between Bi2O3 behavior by itself and in the presence of Fe2O3, and crystal structure examination. With this new information, a proposed reaction pathway from the starting oxides to the product is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductors have attracted great attention for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) applications due to their rich variety, adjustable band structure, good chemical stability, and biocompatibility. However, their intrinsic weak SERS activity limited the further development of semiconductor substrates. Here, the α‐Fe2O3 films with high { 11¯0} and { 110} facet exposure ratios were fabricated through an electrodeposition method with the existence of NH4Cl and CH3COONa. The α‐Fe2O3{ 11¯0} and α‐Fe2O3{ 110} films show excellent SERS properties with enhancement factor of 4.155×103 and 5.481×103, as well as the relatively low limit of detection down to 2 × 10−7 M for 4‐nitrobenzenethiol. Meanwhile, the lower relative standard deviation values (<10%) confirm the well uniformity of as‐prepared substrates. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy analysis reveals that the α‐Fe2O3{ 110} possesses the lower work function, which could guarantee the efficient interfacial charge transfer between substrates and probe molecules. Moreover, first principles calculations further indicates that the charge transfer efficiency on { 110} facet can be effectively improved, and thus significantly enhance the SERS activity of α‐Fe2O3. The current study provides a strategy for the fabrication and application of semiconductor‐based SERS substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defects engineering is significant for photocatalytic environment remediation. To this end, visible‐light‐driven α‐Fe2O3/ZrO2‐x S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with optimal oxygen vacancy (Ov) defects are successfully synthesized via a two‐step method. Compared with pristine UiO‐66‐NH2‐derived ZrO2‐x and α‐Fe2O3, the heterojunction photocatalysts exhibit a wider range of visible light response and higher efficiency in separating photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Among them, the 5% α‐Fe2O3/ZrO2‐x sample shows the best photocatalytic performance to the degradation of tetracycline (TC) (89.3%), in which the pseudo‐first‐order kinetic rate constants are 8.20 and 16.75 times that of pristine ZrO2‐x and α‐Fe2O3, respectively. The outstanding photocatalytic degradation efficiency can be attributed to both the narrow‐bandgap ZrO2‐x with visible light response and the formation of α‐Fe2O3/ZrO2‐x S‐scheme heterojunctions. During the formation of heterojunctions, the concentration of oxygen vacancies (Ov) at the interface of α‐Fe2O3/ZrO2‐xdecreases monotonically with the increasing loading of α‐Fe2O3, thereby altering the electronic structure of the photocatalyst and forming the heterojunction firmly. In addition, the high stability implies the potential applications in fields of environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) exhibits outstanding electrical conductivity and a high specific surface area, making it a promising material for various applications. Fe2O3 is highly desirable due to its significant theoretical capacity and cost-effectiveness, high abundance, and environmental friendliness. However, the performance of these r-GO/Fe2O3 composite electrodes still needs to be further improved, especially in terms of cycle stability. The composite of Fe2O3 anchored on N-doped graphene with inside micro-channels (Fe2O3@N-GIMC) was used to be efficiently prepared. Because the inside channels can furnish extra transmission pathways and absorption websites and the interconnected structure can efficaciously forestall pulverization and aggregation of electrode materials. In addition, N doping is also beneficial to improve its electrochemical performance. Thus, it demonstrates exceptional sodium storage characteristics, including notable electrochemical activity, impressive initial Coulombic efficiency, and favorable rate performance. The optimized Fe2O3@N-GIMC indicates outstanding discharge capacity (573.5 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), significant rate performance (333.6 mAh g−1 at 8 A g−1), and stable long-term cycle durability (308.9 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1, 200.8 mAh g−1 after 4000 cycles at 1 A g−1) as a sodium-ion battery anode. This presents a new approach for preparing graphene-based high-functional composites and lays a stable basis for further expanding its application field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Awulale Iron Metallogenic Belt (AIMB) has developed many medium–large iron deposits, of which the Zhibo iron deposit is selected as the research object in this paper. The Zhibo deposit's ore primarily consists of magnetite as the main mineral, accompanied by extensive epidotization. The mineral assemblage includes diopside, albite, actinolite, epidote, chlorite, K-feldspar, quartz, calcite, chalcopyrite, and pyrite. Magnetite is classified into two groups based on sulfide content and mineral assemblage (MagI for sulfide-free and MagII for sulfide-rich ores). Two-stage mineralization of magnetite has been identified based on mineral assemblages and paragenesis, including the magmatic stage MagI and hydrothermal stage MagII. Mag I shows inhomogeneous backscattered electron (BSE) textures and consists of BSE-light and -dark domains (Mag I-L and MagI-D). Seven subtypes of magnetite have been recognized in this deposit. MagI-L and MagI-D have formed in the magmatic stage and show BSE images in light and dark colors, respectively. MagI-L is anhedral to subhedral and is inclusion-free. MagI-D has mainly replaced MagI-L along fractures and contains inclusions and pores. MagII has formed in the hydrothermal stage and is characterized by coupled dissolution–reprecipitation (DRP) textures. It can be divided into five sub-generations, that is, MagII-1, MagII-2, MagII-3, MagII-L, and MagII-D. MagII-1, MagII-2, and MagII-3 comprise the core–mantle–rim texture, while MagII-L and MagII-D comprise the core–rim texture. MagII-1 is BSE-light and is enriched with inclusions and pores. MagII-2 has partly replaced MagII-1 and exhibits oscillatory zoning under BSE imaging. It also contains inclusions. BSE-light MagII-3 occurs as overgrowth along MagII-2 margins and is inclusion-free. MagI magnetite is enriched with V, Cr, and Ni, whereas MagII is enriched with W, Ta, Nb, Sr, Sb, Sn, Y, Zr, Mg, Al, and Ti, indicating a decreased temperature of magnetite formation. MagI-L crystallizes from the original magma, while MagI-D is formed from the residual magma enriched with incompatible elements. MagII crystallizes from later multiple hydrothermal activities through the dissolution of early magnetite and the re-precipitation of later magnetite or from MagI-D which has later undergone a hydrothermal overprinting process. According to the texture and chemical composition of magnetite from the Zhibo deposit, we suggest that the Zhibo iron deposit was formed from the initial magmatic origin and then underwent a hydrothermal overprinting process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The five Starra iron oxide copper–gold (IOCG) deposits, which are located in the Cloncurry district of the Mount Isa Inlier, NW Queensland, are hosted in a N-trending zone of deformed iron-rich metasedimentary rocks that are underlain by two mineralogically distinct mafic–intermediate meta-igneous rocks. Copper–Au mineralisation is subdivided into two stages—an early main stage that transitioned from a magnetite-dominated Cu substage comprising chalcopyrite, pyrite, biotite and chlorite, to a hematite–muscovite-bearing Cu–Au substage with chalcopyrite, bornite and rare chalcocite, as well as Au–Ag-tellurides and native Au. This second stage was followed by a subordinate but nonetheless important carbonate–quartz–barite vein stage with minor but locally high-grade Cu–Au mineralisation characterised by abundant chalcocite and bornite, minor native bismuth and wittichenite (Cu3BiS3), together with minor Au–Ag telluride minerals. Bornite in these carbonate–quartz–barite veins contains considerable amounts of Au (>10 ppm), which appears to be deported either as lattice substitution in the bornite crystal structure or as homogeneously distributed Au0 nanoparticles. An earlier, coarse-grained mafic intrusion was affected by early Na–Ca alteration, whereas a second mafic intrusion lacks evidence of Na–Ca alteration but was exposed to K–Fe alteration and subsequent mineralisation at Starra 222. Mushketovite (magnetite after specular hematite) is only observed in ironstone lodes proximal to the mafic–intermediate rocks. The close spatial and mineralogical associations of the mafic–intermediate bodies and the ironstone lodes point to a stronger link between magmatic activity and IOCG mineralisation than has previously been recognised at Starra. Remobilisation of gold by late-stage hydrothermal fluids aided by the relatively low fluid temperatures during the main pulse of Cu–Au mineralisation refined gold grades at Starra, making it a relatively gold-rich IOCG deposit. We show that the Cu–Au deposits of the Starra trend feature mineralogical and geochemical elements common to both Cloncurry IOCG deposits (e.g. abundant magnetite) and IOCG deposits of the Tennant Creek district (e.g. Au–Cu–Bi mineralisation; hematite–bornite–chalcocite assemblages), making them a unique and important member of this complex family of deposits. Mafic–intermediate sills below Starra ore deposits indicate a potential link between magmatic activity and IOCG mineralisation. Mushketovite associated with chalcopyrite mineralisation indicates that the mineralising fluid was initially reduced. Different radiogenic Pb isotope compositions in Cu sulfides, hematite and calcite require multiple Pb sources, which is consistent with distinct fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel is a mixture of fatty acid alkyl esters (FAAEs) mainly produced via transesterification reactions among triglycerides and short-chain alcohols catalyzed by chemical catalysts (e.g., KOH, NaOH). Lipase-assisted enzymatic transesterification has been proposed to overcome the drawbacks of chemical synthesis, such as high energy consumption, expensive separation of the catalyst from the reaction mixture and production of large amounts of wastewater during product separation and purification. However, one of the main drawbacks of this process is the enzyme cost. In recent years, nano-immobilized lipases have received extensive attention in the design of robust industrial biocatalysts for biodiesel production. To improve lipase catalytic efficiency, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted growing interest as versatile lipase carriers, owing to their unique properties, such as high surface-to-volume ratio and high enzyme loading capacity, low cost and inertness against chemical and microbial degradation, biocompatibility and eco-friendliness, standard synthetic methods for large-scale production and, most importantly, magnetic properties, which provide the possibility for the immobilized lipase to be easily separated at the end of the process by applying an external magnetic field. For the preparation of such effective magnetic nano-supports, various surface functionalization approaches have been developed to immobilize a broad range of industrially important lipases. Immobilization generally improves lipase chemical-thermal stability in a wide pH and temperature range and may also modify its catalytic performance. Additionally, different lipases can be co-immobilized onto the same nano-carrier, which is a highly effective strategy to enhance biodiesel yield, specifically for those feedstocks containing heterogeneous free fatty acids (FFAs). This review will present an update on the use of magnetic iron oxide nanostructures (MNPs) for lipase immobilization to catalyze transesterification reactions for biodiesel production. The following aspects will be covered: (1) common organic modifiers for magnetic nanoparticle support and (2) recent studies on modified MNPs-lipase catalysts for biodiesel production. Aspects concerning immobilization procedures and surface functionalization of the nano-supports will be highlighted. Additionally, the main features that characterize these nano-biocatalysts, such as enzymatic activity, reusability, resistance to heat and pH, will be discussed. Perspectives and key considerations for optimizing biodiesel production in terms of sustainability are also provided for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first article discusses a fatal crash involving a CV-22B Osprey aircraft in Japan. The Air Force Special Operations Command knows what failed in the crash, but the cause of the failure is still unknown. As a result of the crash, Osprey aircraft across the Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy have been grounded. The second article reports on a gas pipeline explosion in Elmwood, Oklahoma, which shot flames 500 feet into the air. The cause of the explosion has not been determined. The third article highlights research conducted by engineers at the University of Colorado and Sandia National Laboratories, who have developed a new design for padding that can withstand big impacts. This technology could be used in various applications, including football pads and shipping crates. The fourth article discusses a method for producing "green" steel from toxic red mud, a byproduct of aluminum production. Scientists have found a way to convert the iron oxide in red mud into iron using hydrogen plasma, which could lead to the production of CO2-free steel. [Extracted from the article]

[Display omitted] • Pyrite ore as the only additive is used for sulfation reaction of LiCoO 2. • The mechanism of the sulfation reaction of LiCoO 2 was obtained. • Lithium deintercalation has been verified through density functional theory calculations. • High purity Li 2 CO 3 could be produced from the lithium sulfate leaching solution. Recovery of valuable metals from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is of great importance for resource sustainability and environmental protection. This study introduced pyrite ore (FeS 2) as an alternative additive to achieve the selective recovery of Li 2 CO 3 from spent LiCoO 2 (LCO) batteries. The mechanism study revealed that the sulfation reaction followed two pathways. During the initial stage (550 °C–800 °C), the decomposition and oxidation of FeS 2 and the subsequent gas–solid reaction between the resulting SO 2 and layered LCO play crucial roles. The sulfation of lithium occurred prior to cobalt, resulting in the disruption of layered structure of LCO and the transformation into tetragonal spinel. In the second stage (over 800 °C), the dominated reactions were the decomposition of orthorhombic cobalt sulfate and its combination with rhombohedral Fe 2 O 3 to form CoFe 2 O 4. The deintercalation of Li from LCO by the substitution of Fe and conversion of Co(III)/Fe(II) into Co 3 O 4 /CoFe 2 O 4 were further confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculation results. This fundamental understanding of the sulfation reaction facilitated the future development of lithium extraction methods that utilized additives to substantially reduce energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of GdIG ceramics with good infrared transparency have been fabricated by a hot-press sintering process with vacuum/oxygen atmosphere. The effects of the powder synthesizing temperature and the ceramic sintering temperature on the phase structure and microstructure of the GdIG ceramics were examined and analyzed. The GdIG ceramic sample sintered at 1275 °C from the Gd 2 O 3 and Fe 2 O 3 powders pre-synthesized at 1000 °C demonstrated an exceptionally high infrared transmittance, it is ≥ 68% within the wavelength range of 1500–5000 nm (t = 0.5 mm). Furthermore, the magnetic and magneto-optic property of the GdIG ceramic samples were investigated and discussed. When a saturation external magnetic field of ∼50 mT acting on the GdIG ceramic sample, the specific Faraday rotation angles are about 104 deg./cm and 51 deg./cm at 1064 and 1550 nm wavelength respectively. It exhibits a good faraday effect of GdIG ceramics which is rarely reported until now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ore texture determines the proportion of the early rejection of gangue of the low-grade iron ores. However, a detailed study of the early rejection of gangue for low-grade iron ores with different textures is still highly desirable. In this study, three types of low-grade iron ores with different grain sizes were crushed to −3 mm by a high-pressure grinding roller (HPGR). Mineral Liberation Analyzer (MLA) and dry magnetic separation tests were performed on the resulting products. The MLA test results showed that the gangue in fine-grained iron ores was more difficult to liberate than in coarse-grained iron ores. The dry magnetic separation tests indicated that only 15.23% of gangue could be rejected for fine-grained iron ores, which was much lower than that of coarse-grained iron ores. Liberation analysis revealed that a large proportion of the gangue contained only a small amount of valuable iron oxide minerals. By returning the middling from dry magnetic separation to HPGR for crushing again, the gangue rejection percentage for fine-grained iron ore increased to 33.56%. These results demonstrate that liberation studies can help improve the efficiency of early rejection of gangue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, ceramic dentures are mainly obtained by using computer-assisted cutting block of material to obtain the shape as the removing a model of patient's mouth. Followed by immersion coloring, porcelain stacking, and sintering to obtain dentures similar to a patients' tooth, this is a large-loss and complex process. In this study, 16 standard tooth samples were successfully reduced by adding Fe 2 O 3 , Pr 6 O 10 , Er 2 O 3 , and MnO 2. After the colorful ceramic powder and photosensitive resin were configured into a slurry, a close to the sample tooth dentures was successfully prepared using digital light processing (DLP). The flexural strength and compressive strength of the ceramic specimens prepared by this method reached 821.01 ± 51.72 MPa and 2.67 GPa ± 0.22 MPa. To verify the biosafety of the prepared ceramics, we performed an in vitro biological evaluation of rat fibroblasts (L929). The resulting showed that the extracts of the prepared ceramic teeth had good biosafety, and the cells could also attach to the surface of the prepared ceramics. Hemolysis experiments confirmed good blood compatibility. Thus, our results show that DLP-printed standard tooth-colored ceramic dentures have good mechanical properties and biocompatibility, and can provide a solution to patients seeking quick access to aesthetic dentures. We present a strategy for the development of standard tooth-colored, high-precision, high-mechanical-property and highly biocompatible ceramic dentures based on DLP light-curing printing technology. Through a large number of experiments to find the law of color adjustment, and achieved the reduction of 16 kinds of tooth color. Adjusting the printing parameters, high precision printing was realized. The samples are structurally stable after sintering and have excellent mechanical properties. Through CCK-8, hemolysis rate, live/dead cell staining, cell adhesion and cytoskeletal staining tests, the prepared denture showed excellent biocompatibility. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To balance mechanical strength, friction stability, and low wear, a novel wear-resistant component system: modified sepiolite-complex ceramic powder, was employed in copper-based composite materials, leading to the successful preparation of samples with outstanding mechanical and frictional performance. The material exhibits high friction stability, low wear, and the simultaneous occurrence of a high friction coefficient, which may be caused by uniquely composed dual friction film. The external layer of the friction film consists of Cu 2 O, Fe 2 O 3 , and CaO metal-films, while the internal layer consists of B 2 O 3 film, graphite, and sepiolite. Additionally, modified sepiolite (composed of sepiolite, CaCO 3 and enstatite) plays a dual role in wear resistance and high-temperature lubrication. Furthermore, the Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (Gbdt) model was found to provide more meaningful guidance for predicting friction coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A versatile approach is achieved through the surface coating of sulfur on α‐Fe2O3 nanosheet by microwave treatment that inherently supports the formation of self‐induced active solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer which effectively protects the electrode surface and enhances the cyclic stability of lithium‐ion battery. The present findings on a sulfur‐coated α‐Fe2O3@S‐2 core‐shell structured anode demonstrates an initial specific capacity of 1194 mAh g−1 at a 0.1 C rate, and an average discharge capacity of 518 mAh g−1 over 20 cycles. Sulfur coating proves the incredible development of an active SEI layer that prevents electrolyte decomposition and the electrode persuades with stable capacity, fast rate capability and retains excellent coulombic efficiency for 500 cycles in LIB. GITT measurements exhibit superior Li+ ion diffusion coefficient DLi+= ${{D}_{{Li}^{+}}={\rm \ }}$ 2.87×10−10 cm2 s−1 at 80 % SOC for the α‐Fe2O3@S‐2 electrode. The in‐depth ex‐situ evaluations uncovered a fascinating self‐assembled active Li2SO4 electrode‐electrolyte interface formation in the sulfur‐coated α‐Fe2O3 electrode that contributes interfacial kinetics. The sulfur coated α‐Fe2O3 electrode exhibits an exceptional high‐rate performance and coulombic efficiency even in lithium‐sulfur battery. This research overthrows sulfur's significance in forming an active interfacial bridging SEI layer that facilitates lithium‐ion kinetics across the interface and alleviates undesirable SEI development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricigens decompose organic matter and convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy through extracellular electron transfer. They are significant biocatalysts for microbial fuel cells with practical applications in green energy generation, effluent treatment, and bioremediation. A facultative anaerobic electrogenic strain SQ-1 is isolated from sludge in a biotechnology factory. The strain SQ-1 is a close relative of Klebsiella variicola. Multilayered biofilms form on the surface of a carbon electrode after the isolated bacteria are inoculated into a microbial fuel cell device. This strain produces high current densities of 625 μA cm–2 by using acetate as the carbon source in a three-electrode configuration. The electricity generation performance is also analyzed in a dual-chamber microbial fuel cell. It reaches a maximum power density of 560 mW m–2 when the corresponding output voltage is 0.59 V. The facultative strain SQ-1 utilizes hydrous ferric oxide as an electron acceptor to perform extracellular electricigenic respiration in anaerobic conditions. Since facultative strains possess better properties than anaerobic strains, Klebsiella sp. SQ-1 may be a promising exoelectrogenic strain for applications in microbial electrochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXene exhibits a high specific surface area and excellent electrical conductivity. Combined with metal oxide semiconductors, it can effectively prevent the agglomeration of lamellar structures and significantly enhance the carrier transfer rate, thereby enhancing gas-sensitive performance. Fe2O3/Nb2O5/Nb4C3Tx ternary composites were successfully synthesized using a straightforward twostep hydrothermal and calcination method. Fe2O3 microspheres were characterized to be distributed between the layers of MXene nanosheets. Gas-sensitive test results demonstrate a significant enhancement in the responsiveness of the Fe2O3/Nb2O5/Nb4C3Tx sensor to acetone compared to the pristine Fe2O3. The sensor exhibits high sensitivity, improved selectivity, and a strong response to 5 x 10-6 acetone (Ra/Rg = 7:81, 30% RH). Additionally, it demonstrates rapid response and recovery times, excellent reproducibility, and long-term stability. The excellent gas-sensitive performance of the Fe2O3/Nb2O5/Nb4C3Tx sensor can be attributed to the large specific surface area and abundant oxygen vacancies provided by the ternary composite material. These features enhance the availability of active sites, facilitating the diffusion of gases on the sensor surface, which provides valuable insights into the development of acetonesensitive material composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting the interfacial reaction between iron oxide (FeOx) particles generated from concentrate and silica-flux in the reaction shaft is essential to make the slag with good flowability and ensure matte separation in the settler of the flash furnace. The interfacial reaction of micro-meter-order-sized FeOx particles in contact with silica-flux was observed using high-temperature microscopy, and the slag formation behavior was successfully observed directly with this system. The main product of FeS oxidation is Fe3O4 in the flash furnace operation condition, and the reaction temperature between Fe3O4 and SiO2 is considerably higher than the typical melt temperature in the settler. On the other hand, when FeS coexisted with Fe3O4, the reaction temperature with SiO2 was significantly lowered. It was shown that the coexistence of FeS with Fe3O4 and SiO2 is the key to the removal of Fe3O4 and the formation of FeOx–SiO2 slag in the reaction shaft. The effect of the particle size, the composition of silica-flux, and the partial pressure of O2 on the reaction were also investigated in this study. It was shown that the observation method reported here has the potential for obtaining the reaction kinetics of interfacial slag formation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exact evaluation of the fusion rate of virgin and aged asphalt is essential to optimize the performance of the recycled asphalt mixture. The fusion rate index was developed by tracing the distribution of tracer asphalt, which contains nano-ferrous ferric oxide (nanoF3O4 ) tracer. Laboratory fusion simulation tests were performed on three types of asphalt to obtain different fusion states, and fatigue tests were performed to evaluate the influence of the fusion rate on the fatigue life of the recycled asphalt. It was found that the tracer asphalt containing 4% nano-Fe3O4 shows the optimal trace effect, and the developed fusion rate index can quantitatively characterize the influence of different factors on the fusion state of the recycled asphalt. The fusion state is closely related to the fatigue performance of recycled asphalt, and the fusion rate index can fairly evaluate its fatigue performance. The relationship between the fusion rate and the fatigue life of recycled asphalt depends on the factors that cause the fusion rate variation. Under the influence of the amount of rejuvenator, the fatigue life of recycled asphalt grows exponentially with increasing fusion rate due to enhancement of molecular motion as well as a supplement of lightweight components. Under the influence of heat preservation treatment, fatigue life increases linearly with increasing fusion rate. The proposed fusion rate index can be utilized to quantitatively characterize the fusion state of virgin and aged asphalt, thus providing a simple way to guide the practical application of recycled asphalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valence state of Fe plays a vital role in setting and recording the oxidation state of magmas, commonly expressed in terms of oxygen fugacity ( f O 2 ). However, our knowledge of how and why f O 2 varies within and between magmatic systems remains patchy because of diverse challenges associated with estimating the valence state of Fe in glasses and minerals routinely. Here we investigate Fe valence systematics in magmatic clinopyroxene crystals from ocean island basalts (OIBs) erupted in Iceland and the Azores to explore whether they record information about magma Fe 3 + contents and magmatic f O 2 conditions. Although many studies assume that all Fe in augitic clinopyroxene crystals from OIBs occurs as Fe 2 + , we find that up to half of the total Fe present can occur as Fe 3 + , with crystals from alkali systems typically containing more Fe 3 + than those from tholeiitic systems. Thus, Fe 3 + is a major if under-appreciated constituent of augitic clinopyroxene crystals erupted from ocean island volcanoes. Most Fe 3 + in these crystals is hosted within esseneite component (CaFe 3 + AlSiO 6 ), though some may be hosted in aegirine component (NaFe 3 + Si 2 O 6 ) in crystals from alkali systems. Observations from samples containing quenched matrix glasses suggest that the incorporation of Fe 3 + is related to the abundance of tetrahedrally coordinated Al ( IV Al), implying some steric constraints over Fe 3 + partitioning between clinopyroxene and liquid (i.e., D Fe 2 O 3 cpx - liq values), though this may not be an equilibrium relationship. For example, IV Al-rich { h k 0 } prism sectors of sector-zoned crystals contain more Fe 3 + than IV Al-poor { 1 ¯ 11 } hourglass sectors. Moreover, IV Al-rich compositions formed during disequilibrium crystallisation are enriched in Fe 3 + . Apparent clinopyroxene-liquid Fe 2 + –Mg exchange equilibria (i.e., K D , Fe 2 + - Mg cpx - liq values) are similarly affected by disequilibrium crystallisation in our samples. Nonetheless, it is possible to reconcile our observed clinopyroxene compositions with glass Fe valence systematics estimated from olivine-liquid equilibria if we assume that K D , Fe 2 + - Mg cpx - liq values lies closer to experimentally reported values of 0.24 - 0.26 than values of ∼ 0.28 returned from a general model. In this case, olivine-liquid and clinopyroxene-liquid equilibria record equivalent narratives, with one of our glassy samples from Iceland recording evolution under f O 2 conditions about one log unit above fayalite-magnetite-quartz (FMQ) equilibrium (i.e., ∼ FMQ+1) and our glassy Azorean sample recording evolution under significantly more oxidising conditions (≥ FMQ+2.5) before experiencing syn-eruptive reduction, likely as a result of SO 2 degassing; our other glassy sample from Iceland was also affected by reductive SO 2 degassing. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the Fe valence systematics of clinopyroxene crystals can record information about the conditions under which OIBs evolve, but that further experimental work is required to properly disentangle the effects of magma composition, disequilibrium and f O 2 conditions on clinopyroxene-liquid equilibria involving Fe 2 + and Fe 3 + . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study concentrates on investigating the impact of hybrid additives of ethanol and butanol with magnetite (Iron oxide nanoparticle) added at 100 ppm each to the biofuels, 10% of the resulting nano-biofuel (5% ethanol and magnetite; 5% butanol and magnetite) was then blended with 90% pure palm oil biodiesel (B100). A single-cylinder Yanmar L70N engine was used in the experiment with the resulting fuel. The engine test results indicated that the addition of magnetite nanoparticles in conjunction with the two biofuels significantly reduced brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) up to 15.68% (8.8 gm/kW-hr) compared with B100 (10.4 gm/kW-hr) at peak brake power. The break thermal efficiency (BTE) also improved by 4.26% and 9.71% at tested minimum and maximum brake power, respectively. The emission of hydrocarbon (HC), Carbon Oxide (CO), smoke and nitrogen oxide (NOx) were reduced obviously by 14.45%, 11.98%, 7.25% and 5.77% respectively, compared to pure B100 use at peak load. In general, the application of the dual additive approach of combining biofuels and nanoparticles yields positive results due to the improved surface-to-volume ratio of the nanoparticles and good physicochemical attributes of the biofuels, which enhanced the performance of the B100 fuel; thus, more areas should be exploited in these regards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticle (NP)-based solutions for oncotherapy promise an improved efficiency of the anticancer response, as well as higher comfort for the patient. The current advancements in cancer treatment based on nanotechnology exploit the ability of these systems to pass biological barriers to target the tumor cell, as well as tumor cell organelles. In particular, iron oxide NPs are being clinically employed in oncological management due to this ability. When designing an efficient anti-cancer therapy based on NPs, it is important to know and to modulate the phenomena which take place during the interaction of the NPs with the tumor cells, as well as the normal tissues. In this regard, our review is focused on highlighting different approaches to studying the internalization patterns of iron oxide NPs in simple and complex 2D and 3D in vitro cell models, as well as in living tissues, in order to investigate the functionality of an NP-based treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailoring the magnetic properties of iron oxide nanosystems is essential to expanding their biomedical applications. In this study, 34 nm iron oxide nanocubes with two phases consisting of Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3 were annealed for 2 h in the presence of O2, N2, He, and Ar to tune the respective phase volume fractions and control their magnetic properties. X-ray diffraction and magnetic measurements were carried out post-treatment to evaluate changes in the treated samples compared to the as-prepared samples, showing an enhancement of the α-Fe2O3 phase in the samples annealed with O2 while the others indicated a Fe3O4 enhancement. Furthermore, the latter samples indicated enhancements in crystallinity and saturation magnetization, while coercivity enhancements were the most significant in samples annealed with O2, resulting in the highest specific absorption rates (of up to 1000 W/g) in all the applied fields of 800, 600, and 400 Oe in agar during magnetic hyperthermia measurements. The general enhancement of the specific absorption rate post-annealing underscores the importance of the annealing atmosphere in the enhancement of the magnetic and structural properties of nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are described as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm in size. Nowadays they are making an increasingly prevalent environmental issue as generated by a variety of products. Microplastics are diagnosed in various environmental compartments like soil, water, and air and affect the quality of them. Manta nets, dust samplers, shawls, trawl etc. the sampling equipment are used. They are identified and characterised by Visual identification, FTIR, SEM, RAMAN etc. This review paper addresses the origins, sources, distribution, adverse impacts and potential hazards of microplastics on the environment and living beings andidentification and quantification methods in environmental samples. Also, emphasis on Nanoparticle-mediated degradation of microplasticswith titanium dioxide, iron oxide, and zinc oxide via surface adsorption and ROS generation. Integrating nanoparticles into bioplastic degradation enhances efficiency, offering multifaceted solutions for a cleaner, sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different mass fractions of nano iron oxide were added to Jun porcelain glaze, and analyzed changes in the color and microstructure of Jun porcelain after firing in reducing atmosphere (96% Ar/4% H2) and oxidizing atmosphere (air). The color change was studied by spectrophotometer, the phase composition of Jun porcelain was studied by X-ray diffractometer and Raman spectrometer, and microstructure of glaze layer was studied by SEM. The results show that with an increase in the gradient of nano iron oxide content, Jun porcelain specimens changes from light blue to blue, then to cyan gray under reducing atmosphere, and from white to yellow, and then to sauce black under oxidizing atmosphere. When nano iron oxide content in the glaze layer reaches 3.0% (mass fraction), the SiO2 crystal phase on the glaze completely disappears and the glaze appeares amorphous. With the increase of nano iron oxide content, the glaze exhibites a liquid-liquid phase separation structure, and the microstructure size of reducing atmosphere increases from 85 nm to 150 nm, with a relative increase in Fe2+ content. After the glaze of Jun porcelain reaches glass transition in an oxidizing atmosphere, the size of the phase separation structure increased from 217 nm to 307 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jian kiln oil-spot glaze is one of the most typical iron crystal precipitation glazes in ancient China, and it is important to clarify the influence of iron oxide on precipitation glazes coloration and crystal precipitation, to provide a scientific basis and theoretical guidance for the development and innovation of iron crystal precipitation glazes with a variety of coloration effects. In this paper, XRD, Raman, SEM and EDS testing methods were used to investigate the microstructure of the precipitated crystals in glaze melt and the change rules of glaze coloration with different iron oxide content, and to reveal the mechanism of the glaze crystal structure on coloration. The results show that with the increase of iron oxide content, the glaze surface precipitates brownish-yellow, silver-blue, silver-white, silver-white and reddish-brown crystal spots, and the crystal spots are colored by chemical color and structural color coupling effect of crystals. The iron enrichment in the middle area of crystal spot is higher than that in edge area, and the phase change from ε-Fe2O3 to α-Fe2O3 takes place preferentially, forming different color effects. The middle area first precipitates 2 ~ 4 µm leaf-shaped ε-Fe2O3 crystals, with brownish yellow. With the increase of iron oxide content, the glaze layer precipitates with the glaze surface parallel to the directional arrangement of rod-shaped α-Fe2O3 crystals to form crystalline thin film, which produces a strong reflection of light, being silver-white. When the iron oxide continues to increase, the glaze precipitation of 10 ~ 20 µm dendritic α-Fe2O3 crystals penetrates the crystalline thin film, the structural color (silver) produced by the film is weakened, and the chemical color of α-Fe2O3 (reddish brown) is enhanced. The coupling is silver-white with reddish brown. The edge area first precipitates a large number of 30 ~ 50 nm grains, resulting in Rayleigh scattering as blue. With the increase of iron oxide content, the surface layer of rod-like crystals also forms a crystal film and the lower layer of film precipitates 100 ~ 200 nm plate nanocrystals to form amorphous photonic crystals. The coherent scattering is blue, and the reflected silver-white is coupled with silver blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Washed and unwashed P. oceanica wastes were pyrolyzed using TG-MS. • Its natural detrital inorganic matter affects its pyrolysis substantially. • O release and HCOOH formation were probably promoted by AAEMs and Fe 2 O 3. • SO 2 /HCl release decreases, due to carbonates and alkali metal chloride presence. • Depending on the purpose, the interest of P. oceanica washing should be studied. Significant quantities of Posidonia oceanica deposit on some beaches and coastlines every year, which generates high costs associated with the disposal of this waste. Pyrolysis may be an adequate way for its valorization. However, it would imply to know how the process takes place and if the removal of its natural detrital inorganic matter (epiphytes, marine salt and sand) is necessary, which are the objectives of this research. Pyrolysis by thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry was carried out on both the washed and unwashed samples. During this waste pyrolysis, the following occurs: (i) the high alkali metal chloride content promotes fragmentation reactions of carbohydrates and O formation, which increases HCOOH intensities at temperatures between 250 and 360 °C; (ii) from 500 °C to 650 °C, Fe 2 O 3 and decomposition of carbonates seem to be involved in reactions that produce O release and steam and CO 2 reforming of hydrocarbons and oxygenated organic compounds with H 2 generation; (iii) from 650 °C to 750 °C, Fe 2 O 3 , high alkali metal content and carbonate decomposition generate char gasification, an increase in O release, SO 2 capture and HCOOH formation. In general, the abundance of inorganic matter (chlorides, carbonates, etc.) minimizes the release of various compounds during pyrolysis, including SO 2 and HCl, while increasing HCOOH production. Thus, this high content of inorganic matter may represent an advantage for its pyrolysis, producing value-added chemical products with a reduced environmental impact. Therefore, this study may be the starting point for defining the optimal pyrolysis conditions for this waste valorisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Oxygen carrier (OC) promotes the contact between fuel and oxygen in rotary kiln. • OC has capacity for K adsorption during solid waste incineration. • OC enhances hazardous heavy metals retention in the fuel bottom ash. • The leaching toxicity of heavy metals from OCs fully respects Chinese standard limits. Rotary kiln (RK) incineration technology gains prominence in waste management, aiming to reduce pollution, recover energy, and minimize waste. Oxygen-carrier (OC)-aided incineration of waste in the RK demonstrates notable benefits by enhancing oxygen distribution uniformity and facilitating fuel conversion. However, the effects of OC on ash-related alkali and heavy metals during waste incineration in the RK remain unknown. In this study, manganese ore and ilmenite as OCs are introduced into RK during waste combustion, focusing on their effects on the bottom ashes and the behavior of alkali and heavy metals. Results show that manganese ore exhibits a decreasing reactivity due to oxygen depletion during the conversion from Mn 2 O 3 to Mn 3 O 4 , while ilmenite maintains good reactivity due to sustained enrichment of Fe 2 O 3 on the particles even after multiple cycles in RK. The porous structure on the surface of OCs particles verifies the cyclic reaction involving oxidation by air and reduction by fuel as OCs move between the active and passive layers of the bed. The porous OCs particles offer abundant adsorption sites for K from the gaseous phase, with surface-deposited K migrating into the particles and enhancing the OCs' capacity for K adsorption. Adding OCs promotes the formation of stable, less volatile compounds of heavy metals (As, Cr, Pb, and Zn) and enhances their retention in bottom ash while ensuring the leaching toxicity remains below Chinese national standard limits. This study enhances the understanding of OCs in incineration, guiding vital references for waste management practices and environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthetic approach for the synthesis of Iron oxide (α‐Fe2O3) nanoparticles were successfully carried out using Aspergillus oryzae culture mediated biogenic route. The synthesized nanoparticle was confirmed by structural and optical characterization with the help of hematite phase. The α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles show antimicrobial activity against bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungal strain Candida albicans. Under visible light, the α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles demonstrate remarkable antibacterial action, confirming their superior efficacy for photocatalytic remediation. The present study discloses that the α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles are efficient photocatalysts for 96 % degradation of basic fuchsin dye and highly active antimicrobial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrocarbon pollution is a widespread issue in both groundwater and surfacewater systems; however, research on remediation at the interface of these two systems is limited. This interface is the oxic-anoxic boundary, where hydrocarbon pollutant from contaminated groundwaters flows into surface waters and iron mats are formed by microaerophilic iron-oxidizing bacteria. Iron mats are highly chemically adsorptive and host a diverse community of microbes. To elucidate the effect of hydrocarbon exposure on iron mat geochemistry and microbial community structure and function, we sampled iron mats both upstream and downstream from a leaking underground storage tank. Hydrocarbon-exposed iron mats had significantly higher concentrations of oxidized iron and significantly lower dissolved organic carbon and total dissolved phosphate than unexposed iron mats. A strong negative correlation between dissolved phosphate and benzene was observed in the hydrocarbonexposed iron mats and water samples. There were positive correlations between iron and other hydrocarbons with benzene in the hydrocarbon-exposed iron mats, which was unique from water samples. The hydrocarbon-exposed iron mats represented two types, flocculent and seep, which had significantly different concentrations of iron, hydrocarbons, and phosphate, indicating that iron mat is also an important context in studies of freshwater mats. Using constrained ordination, we found the best predictors for community structure to be dissolved oxygen, pH, and benzene. Alpha diversity and evenness were significantly lower in hydrocarbon-exposed iron mats than unexposed mats. Using 16S rDNA amplicon sequences, we found evidence of three putative nitrate-reducing iron-oxidizing taxa in microaerophile-dominated iron mats (Azospira, Paracoccus, and Thermomonas). 16S rDNA amplicons also indicated the presence of taxa that are associated with hydrocarbon degradation. Benzene remediation-associated genes were found using metagenomic analysis both in exposed and unexposed iron mats. Furthermore, the results indicated that season (summer vs. spring) exacerbates the negative effect of hydrocarbon exposure on community diversity and evenness and led to the increased abundance of numerous OTUs. This study represents the first of its kind to attempt to understand how contaminant exposure, specifically hydrocarbons, influences the geochemistry and microbial community of freshwater iron mats and further develops our understanding of hydrocarbon remediation at the land-water interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron oxide (Fe 2 O 3) structures with various morphologies are synthesized by aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition (AACVD) method. The structures are formed reproducibly by tuning different AACVD synthesis parameters, including temperatures, solvents, and samples' position in the reaction chamber. The properties of these structures are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Results demonstrate the formation of six types of crystalline Fe 2 O 3 structures - flattened pyramids (fPy), pyramids (Py), porous pyramids (pPy), sheets (Sh), bricks (Br), and quasi-spherical particles (qsP). The formation of these structures is mainly connected with the use of acetone or acetone/ethanol mixture as solvents and their effect on boosting the influence of the temperature or sample's position, respectively, on the properties of the structures. The gas sensing tests of the structures with higher aspect ratios or porosity (pPy, Py, fPy, and Sh) showed responses to various gases (acetone, ethanol, toluene, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, methane, ammonia, and nitrous oxide), reporting maximum sensitivity and selectivity to acetone and ethanol. The best results recorded are for the porous pyramids which show sensitivities of 5.1 % ppm−1 and 3.9 % ppm−1 (in the range of 10–40 ppm) to acetone and ethanol, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid waste-based lightweight glass ceramics aroused a great deal of attention with the introduction of green building materials. This material demonstrated high performance while alleviating the pressure of waste accumulation. Lightweight glass ceramic was fabricated from phosphorus tailings and coal gangue as raw materials in this work. The effects of phosphorus tailing ratios (50 wt.% - 100 wt.%) and heat-treatment temperatures (1130 °C – 1170 °C) on the pore morphology, properties and toxicity evaluation of lightweight glass ceramics were investigated. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetric mass spectrometry (TG-MS) tests were performed to characterize the sintering behavior of lightweight glass ceramics. The research found that Fe 2 O 3 in the phosphorus tailings and C and FeS 2 within the coal gangue achieve in-situ foaming by creating the gas at elevated temperatures. Results revealed that increasing the proportion of phosphorus tailings facilitated the generation of the molten glassy phase, which favored the formation of bubbles and the expansion of pores. The average pore size of lightweight glass ceramics enlarged from 15.33 μm to 75.02 μm upon increasing the amount of phosphorus tailings from 50 wt.% to 100 wt.%. Increasing the amount of the glassy phase could be achieved by adjusting the heat-treatment temperature. This not only formed a protective film preventing water penetration into the interior of the lightweight glass ceramics but also effectively protected them from corrosion by acidic and alkaline solutions. The water absorption dropped dramatically from 16.44 % to 3.63 % and the corrosion resistance was greater than 98 % when the temperature rose from 1130 °C to 1170 °C. From the toxicity evaluation, the leaching toxicity of Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn in lightweight glass ceramics was 4 orders of magnitude below the limiting value and an extremely low potential ecological risk index (RI = 3.32) was obtained. The optimal preparation parameters were phosphorus tailings addition of 80 wt.% and a heat-treatment temperature of 1160 °C. The corresponding porosity, bulk density, compressive strength, water absorption, acid resistance and alkali resistance were 51.29 %, 1.38 g/cm3, 10.62 MPa, 4.81 %, 98.63 % and 99.96 %. The findings of the research offered a feasible solution for the development of novel green building materials, simultaneously reducing the environmental hazards of solid wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of an innovative reusable adsorbent through adsorption-degradation sequence for antibiotic removal from water. The magnetite/mesoporous carbon adsorbent was prepared using a two-step method of (i) in situ impregnation of magnetite precursor during resorcinol formaldehyde polymerization and (ii) pyrolysis at elevated temperature (800 °C). XRD spectra confirmed that magnetite (Fe3O4) was the only iron oxide species present in the adsorbent, and thermogravimetric analysis revealed that its content was 10 wt%. Nitrogen sorption analysis showed that Fe3O4/carbon features a high fraction of mesopores (> 80 vol.%) and a remarkable specific surface area value (246 m2 g−1), outstanding properties for water treatment. The performance of the adsorbent was examined in the uptake of three relevant antibiotics. The maximum adsorption uptakes were ca. 76 mg g−1, ca. 70 mg g−1, and ca. 44 mg g−1 for metronidazole, sulfamethoxazole, and ciprofloxacin, respectively. All adsorption curves were successfully fitted with Langmuir equilibrium model. The regeneration of adsorbent was carried out using Fenton oxidation under ambient conditions. After three consecutive runs of adsorption-regeneration, Fe3O4/carbon maintained its performance almost unchanged (up to 95% of its adsorption capacity), which highlights the high reusability of the adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study investigates the effects of iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles combined microwave pretreatment on the anaerobic digestibility and soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) of meat industry sludge. One of our main objectives was to see whether the different microwave-based pretreatment procedures can enhance biogas production by improving the biological availability of organic compounds. Results demonstrated that combining microwave irradiation with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles considerably increased SCOD (enhancement ratio was above 1.5), the rate of specific biogas production, and the total cumulative specific biogas volume (more than a threefold increment), while having no negative effect on the biomethane content. Furthermore, the assessment of the sludge samples' dielectric properties (dielectric constant and loss factor measured at the frequency of 500 MHz) showed a strong correlation with SCOD changes (r = 0.9942, R2 = 0.99), offering a novel method to evaluate pretreatment efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the New Journal of Chemistry, a publication by The Royal Society of Chemistry and the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique. It features a variety of articles and papers covering topics such as anti-counterfeiting printing, monitoring platinum(IV) complexes, and the removal of uranium from the kidneys. The journal also provides information on training courses and resources for professional development in chemistry. The papers offer valuable insights and advancements in the field, making it a valuable resource for researchers and professionals in chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

Designing cost-effective catalysts with the structural features and necessary functionality to drive ammonia borane hydrolysis for hydrogen generation remains a challenge. In this work, a close heterojunction of Fe3O4--Ni2P uniformly embedded in amorphous carbon material (Fe3O4--Ni2P@C) has been prepared via surface phosphorization. The catalyst displays superior activity with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 92.8 min-1 and favorable durability for ammonia borane hydrolysis, making it superior to most reported nickel-based catalysts. The theoretical studies show a high electron density on the Fe3O4--Ni2P heterojunction. Combining the theoretical and experimental results, the dual active sites at the heterojunction are beneficial to the adsorption of reactant molecules and the reduction of the reaction barrier. This strategy of constructing an appropriate heterojunction to maximize synergistic effects may open a new avenue for non-precious metal catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the electrochemical characteristics and structural properties of novel nanocomposites with varying compositions of (In 2 O 3) x /(Fe 2 O 3) 1-x , where x ranges from 1 to 0. These nanocomposites were synthesized using a versatile and cost-effective co-precipitation method. The crystallographic structure and morphology of the synthesized samples were thoroughly analyzed using Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Tunneling Electron Microscopy (TEM). Advanced analytical techniques were employed including Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) and Coincidence Doppler Broadening Spectroscopy (CDBS) to uncover critical insights into the structural and molecular properties of these nanocomposites. PALS analysis revealed valuable insights into the pore characteristics of the nanocomposites, while CDBS identified crucial molecular interactions within the materials. Electrochemical characterization of the nanocomposites is carried out using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD) and electrochemical-impedance-spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. The (In 2 O 3) 0.3 /(Fe 2 O 3) 0.7 nanocomposite exhibits a remarkable specific capacitance of 945 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 and exceptional rate performance, retaining 93.6% of its specific capacitance at a six-fold higher current density. Moreover, this nanocomposite electrode demonstrates outstanding cyclic stability, maintaining 92.1% of its specific capacitance even after 3000 GCD cycles at 8 A g-1. These findings suggest that the novel composition and integrated electrochemical properties of the (In 2 O 3) 0.3 /(Fe 2 O 3) 0.7 nanocomposite hold great promise for enhancing the performance of next-generation electrochemical capacitors. This research contributes valuable insights into the design and development of advanced energy storage materials with applications in various high-performance energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α‐Fe2O3 with suitable band structure, good chemical stability, and easy preparation, is a potential photoanode material. However, the key to enhance the performance of α‐Fe2O3 photoanode is to improve the transport characteristics of bulk carriers. It is expected to form a Schottky barrier to improve the carrier separation efficiency by embedding metal nanoparticles into the matrix, but the process is still challenging. Herein, a strategy of forming the Schottky barrier is shown to improve bulk carrier transport dynamics by embedding laser‐generated Pt nanocrystals in α‐Fe2O3 photoanode, which achieves photocurrent densities of up to 1.16 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE (from original 0.21 mA cm−2). This work provides another way to promote the carrier transfer and separation of α‐Fe2O3, which is of great significance to improve the photoelectrochemical water splitting performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]